BLT Macaroni Salad Recipe
Description:
Indulge in the delicious fusion of flavors with this BLT Macaroni Salad, a perfect dish for weeknight dinners or any casual gathering. Combining the beloved elements of a classic BLT with the heartiness of macaroni, this salad offers a delightful contrast of textures and tastes. It is simple to prepare and makes for a refreshing, yet satisfying meal.
Categories and Keywords:
- Recipe Category: Pork
- Keywords: Meat, Weeknight, Refrigerator, Stove Top, < 4 Hours
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 245
- Fat Content: 17.4g
- Saturated Fat Content: 5.7g
- Cholesterol Content: 25.7mg
- Sodium Content: 374.6mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 14.7g
- Fiber Content: 1.1g
- Sugar Content: 1.2g
- Protein Content: 7g
Rating:
- Aggregated Rating: 4.5 stars
- Review Count: 12
Serving Information:
- Recipe Servings: 12
Ingredients:
- Elbow macaroni: 2 cups
- Green onions: 5, finely chopped
- Tomatoes: 1 large, diced
- Celery: 1 1/4 cups, finely chopped
- Mayonnaise: 1 1/4 cups
- White vinegar: 5 tablespoons
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
- Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
- Bacon: 1 cup, cooked and crumbled
Instructions:
-
Cook the Macaroni:
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- Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package directions until al dente.
- Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta.
-
Prepare the Vegetables:
- While the macaroni is cooking, chop the green onions, tomatoes, and celery.
- Place these ingredients into a large mixing bowl.
-
Combine the Macaroni and Vegetables:
- Add the cooled macaroni to the bowl with the green onions, tomatoes, and celery.
- Mix gently to combine.
-
Prepare the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, white vinegar, salt, and pepper until well combined.
-
Dress the Salad:
- Pour the dressing over the macaroni mixture.
- Toss everything together to ensure the macaroni and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
-
Chill the Salad:
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid.
- Refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill.
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Add the Bacon:
- Just before serving, add the cooked and crumbled bacon to the salad.
- Toss gently to incorporate the bacon evenly.
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Serve:
- Serve the BLT Macaroni Salad cold.
- Enjoy this creamy, crunchy, and savory dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Tips and Variations:
- Make Ahead: This salad can be made a day in advance. Just add the bacon right before serving to keep it crispy.
- Alternative Ingredients: For a healthier twist, substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a combination of Greek yogurt and light mayonnaise.
- Add-ins: Feel free to enhance this salad with additional ingredients such as diced avocado, shredded lettuce, or even some shredded cheese for extra flavor and texture.
- Bacon: Make sure the bacon is well-cooked and crispy before adding it to the salad. You can use turkey bacon as a lighter alternative.
- Seasoning: Adjust the seasoning to taste. You might want to add a bit more salt or pepper depending on your preference.
Presentation:
- Serve the BLT Macaroni Salad in a large, colorful bowl to make it look as appealing as it tastes.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or additional chopped green onions for a touch of color and freshness.
Storage:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Note that the salad may become a bit dry as the pasta absorbs the dressing over time. If needed, stir in a bit more mayonnaise or a splash of milk before serving leftovers to restore its creamy texture.
Health Information:
While this BLT Macaroni Salad is delicious and satisfying, it is worth noting the nutritional content for those who are health-conscious. It is a moderate-calorie dish with a significant fat content, primarily from the mayonnaise and bacon. To make it lighter, consider the following modifications:
- Use low-fat or fat-free mayonnaise.
- Substitute turkey bacon or a vegetarian bacon alternative.
- Incorporate more vegetables to increase fiber and reduce the overall calorie density.
Pairings:
This salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes, especially grilled meats or sandwiches. Here are a few suggestions:
- Grilled Chicken: The light and smoky flavor of grilled chicken complements the creamy and savory elements of the salad.
- Burgers: Serve alongside classic beef burgers or veggie burgers for a hearty meal.
- Sandwiches: Pair with deli sandwiches, such as turkey or ham, for a balanced and satisfying lunch.
- BBQ Ribs: The tangy and rich flavors of barbecue ribs provide a delightful contrast to the fresh and creamy salad.
This BLT Macaroni Salad recipe is a crowd-pleaser that brings together the beloved flavors of a BLT sandwich with the comfort of a pasta salad. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or family dinners, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy the simplicity of preparation and the delightful blend of textures and tastes with every bite!